Private Tour - Tracing the Quaintness Nature and Traditional Crafts in Kobe

Kobe , Japan

Private Tour - Tracing the Quaintness Nature and Traditional Crafts in Kobe

Active

(1 reviews)

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Kobe is known as an international port city, but it is also known as a place that reminds us of nature and conveys traditions.
This tour will take you to see the craftsmanship and cultures nurtured in Kobe, as well as the nature that shows its expression in each of the four seasons.

First, you will visit Nunobiki Falls, known as one of the three most sacred waterfalls in Japan, where you can feel the majestic activity of nature.
At the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, you can experience and learn about the carpentry techniques that have supported the development of Japan.
At the end of the tour, you will visit the Sorakueb Garden, a quaint place with a perfect blend of nature, tradition, and Japanese and Western culture.

We will provide you with a day to rediscover the charm of Kobe by experiencing the nature and traditions scattered throughout the city.

Available options

Private Tour - Tracing the Quaintness Nature and Traditional Crafts in Kobe

What's included

Private Tour

Necessary expenses for the tour guide

Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Nunobiki Falls: A scenic spot that is one of the three most sacred waterfalls in Japan. On the way to the waterfalls, you can enjoy a real hike and experience the charm of Kobe, a metropolis sandwiched between the sea and the mountains, in a short time while being healed by the rich nature.

Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum:
It was opened in 1984 in Nakayamate, Kobe, as the only museum of carpentry tools in Japan, to collect and conserve such disappearing tools as a cultural heritage, and to pass them on to the next generation through research and exhibitions.
The museum has 35,000 items on display and offers a valuable opportunity to learn about the skills, wisdom, and spirit of the people who use the tools, as well as the architecture and wood culture that surrounds it.

Ikuta Shrine: This is one of the most popular shrines in Kobe, visited by many worshippers. It is also the origin of the name Kobe. The shrine is dedicated to the god of marriage and is also famous for the hundreds of weddings that take place there every year. You can also experience water fortune-telling, which can tell your fortune about your relationship.

Kitano Meister Garden: A renovated former school building where visitors can experience a variety of crafts. There are more than 20 stores in the facility, offering more than 60 kinds of craft experiences. Create your work of art in a peaceful atmosphere.

Sourakuen Garden: A beautiful Japanese garden of 20,000 square meters, the garden is worth a visit for its many other attractions, such as the 300-year-old boathouse and the architecture, which has been designated as an important cultural asset.

What's not included

Travel expenses and entrance fees for your own

Money for food/drinks, souvenirs and extra activities for your own

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

The use of private van

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

If it rains on the day of the tour, we will not visit Nunobiki Falls for safety reasons.

The tour end location will differ from the start location. If you would like to change the end location, please consult with your tour guide.

The travel expense is not included in the tour fee. Please bring extra money to experience this tour to its fullest. (Entrance fees, transportation fees, activity fees, etc. - at least about JPY4,100 /person)

If you do not arrive at the specified starting place after 60 minutes from the agreed meeting time, the tour will be considered canceled.

Meeting point

JR Sannomiya Station central exit, in front of the Ticket Office

Important notes

・If it rains on the day of the tour, we will not visit Nunobiki Falls for safety reasons.
・The tour end location will differ from the start location. If you would like to change the end location, please consult with your tour guide.
・The travel expense is not included in the tour fee. Please bring extra money to experience this tour to its fullest.
(Entrance fees, transportation fees, activity fees, etc. - at least about JPY4,100 /person)
・If you do not arrive at the specified starting place after 60 minutes from the agreed meeting time, the tour will be considered canceled.

About Kobe

Kobe is a vibrant port city known for its stunning harbor views, diverse architecture, and world-class cuisine. It's a blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern urban living, with a rich history as an international trading hub.

Top Attractions

Kobe Port Tower

A iconic red tower offering panoramic views of Kobe's harbor and skyline. It's a symbol of the city and a popular photo spot.

Architecture 1-2 hours ¥800

Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown)

One of the largest and most vibrant Chinatowns in Japan, filled with colorful shops, restaurants, and street food stalls.

Cultural 1-3 hours Free to explore, varies for food and shopping

Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden and Ropeway

A beautiful garden with a variety of herbs and flowers, accessible by a scenic ropeway ride offering stunning views of Kobe.

Nature 2-3 hours ¥1,600 (includes ropeway and garden entry)

Kobe beef

Kobe beef is one of Japan's most famous and luxurious culinary delights, known for its tenderness and rich flavor. It's a must-try when visiting Kobe.

Cultural 1-2 hours (for a meal) Expensive (¥10,000-¥30,000 per person)

Arima Onsen

One of Japan's oldest and most famous hot spring resorts, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience in a beautiful mountain setting.

Religious Half day to overnight ¥1,000-¥5,000 (varies by bathhouse and ryokan)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kobe beef

Tender, marbled beef from Tajima cattle, known for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Dinner Contains beef

Ikayaki (grilled squid)

A Kobe specialty, this grilled squid is seasoned with soy sauce and served with a tangy dipping sauce.

Snack Seafood, gluten (soy sauce)

Kobe-style sushi

A local twist on traditional sushi, featuring fresh seafood and unique toppings.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (soy sauce)

Menki crab

A popular winter delicacy, Menki crab is known for its sweet and tender meat.

Dinner Seafood

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Rokko Mountains Mountain biking Ropeway ride to Nunobiki Herb Garden Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Scenic harbor cruises Temple and shrine visits Traditional crafts workshops

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers vibrant foliage.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken (in tourist areas)

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60Hz (varies by region)Hz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kobe is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, travelers should always be aware of their surroundings and take basic precautions to protect their belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid sharing your PIN
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night

Getting there

By air

Kobe Airport • 12 km from city center
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 30 km from city center

By train

Shin-Kobe Station, Sannomiya Station

By bus

Sannomiya Bus Terminal, Kobe Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It's the best way to get around the city quickly.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sannomiya Kitano-cho Nada

Day trips

Himeji Castle

30 km from Kobe • Half day to full day

One of Japan's most famous and well-preserved feudal castles, known for its elegant white exterior and beautiful gardens.

Osaka

30 km from Kobe • Full day

A vibrant, bustling city known for its modern architecture, historic sites, and delicious street food. Osaka offers a mix of traditional and contemporary attractions.

Koyasan

50 km from Kobe • Full day to overnight

A sacred mountain and the center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. Koyasan is home to numerous temples, monasteries, and beautiful gardens.

Festivals

Kobe Luminarie • Early December (dates vary) Kobe Port Festival • Early May (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Nunobiki Herb Garden and Ropeway for stunning views of Kobe and beautiful gardens.
Try Kobe beef at a high-end restaurant for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Explore the historic Kitano-cho neighborhood for a glimpse into Kobe's international past and beautiful views of the harbor.
Take a day trip to Himeji Castle, one of Japan's most famous and well-preserved feudal castles.
Visit the Kobe Luminarie festival in December for a breathtaking light display along the harbor.